Two 52 Hike Challenge community members helped us to create this blog on First Aid kits for anyone hiking with their pets. Thank you Elyssa and Katharine (Katie) LaVacca, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, for sharing this information.
"I am a veterinarian, working in New York, specializing in the care of domestic animals primarily dogs and cats.
As more people are hitting the trails with their furry friends, I want to draw awareness to being prepared for yourself and your pup, should an injury occur. "
"I know this idea can be overwhelming at first. With that in mind, I have compiled a list of the items I pack in my dog first aid kit, and keep in my day pack, for every hike in order to help keep my trail dog and myself safe."
For a PDF with these items click here.
First Aid Kit For Hiking With Pets
- Gauze pads
- 2” gauze bandage/stretch gauze or cast padding
- 2” Self-adherent cohesive wrap bandage/vet wrap
- 1” medical tape
- Kwik stop
- Benadryl (1mg per 1lb of dog-this can be given to your dog if they have an allergic reaction on the trail such as hives or facial swelling, before heading to your local veterinarian. Remember medications in most first aid kits such as Ibuprofen or Aleve cannot be given to dogs as they are toxic)
- Bandage scissors
- Nail clippers
"The most comprehensive first aid kit I’ve found, on Amazon, is this Rayco First Flashing Emergency kit.
I also think it would be a good idea to have some basic first aid knowledge, specific for pets in addition to supplies and equipment, in the woods..."
We couldn't agree more with that last sentence! If you're planning to bring your pup on the trails, don't forget to pack an emergency kit for them too.
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Wishing you safe and happy trails!